The report Qualitative Feedback from Community Participants, NGOs and External Stakeholders on Freedom Fund Interventions to Reduce the Prevalence of Bonded Labour in Tamil Nadu presents the results of an evaluation conducted by the Institute of Development Studies and Praxis India. The research involved interviews with community members, NGO staff, and external stakeholders across six villages, focusing on the effectiveness of various program activities. The analysis utilized DAC criteria—relevance, efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability—to evaluate the impact of these interventions, with findings documented through thematic coding and qualitative feedback.
The results indicate significant community engagement and awareness raising, leading to actions that have reduced bonded labour prevalence from 56.1% to 11.1%. One of the main remaining challenges is the influx of migrant workers facing similar exploitation. The report recommends enhancing group formation for collective action, addressing caste dynamics, and improving livelihood opportunities. It emphasises the need for a targeted strategy to tackle deeper caste issues and the importance of sustaining community-led initiatives to ensure long-term change. Additionally, it calls for further research on the conditions of migrant workers to prevent the replacement of local labour with more vulnerable populations.
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